Pepitos Tex-Mex Bar & Grill   

This is one of a very few Mexican restaurants that's been in the Twin Cities since before tacos and such were sold by the bag. Southwestern dining was a trend waiting to be discovered, and if you didn't know about Pepito's, you were out of luck. This may still be the best, despite an outbreak of local Tex-Mex dining options, when it comes to authenticity. Located just a couple of doors down from the historic Parkway Theater since 1971, the family-owned eatery continues to serve hearty helpings of spicy pork, huevos rancheros and homemade chorizo for added zing. Tacos and chimichangas are bigger and better than you may have encountered at competing chain restaurants. Although the margaritas still flow in abundance, the nightlife here is not quite as hot and heavy as it once was -- longtime regulars are more apt to show up for the unique Sunday buffet brunch. The Eden Prairie location and a South Minneapolis deli offer access to Pepito's treats for those staying west of I35W. -- John Sharpe